The San Diego Padres' ongoing quest for a World Series (or at least a playoff title). "You know that many runners enter a race, but only one of them wins the prize. So run to win! Athletes work hard to win a crown that cannot last, but we do it for a crown that will last forever." 1 Corinthians 9:24-25

Who are these guys??

Mat Latos throws in Tuesday's game against the Atlanta Braves. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)

Have won four games in a row.

Won each of those games by one run.

Had 10+ hits in each of those games.

Yes, that does describe the San Diego Padres. I know, I know, it’s hard to believe, but really, we have been that good in the past four games. I think all Padres fans are in a bit of shock right now, but man, it’s a good feeling.

We won Saturday and Sunday’s games against the Nationals, 2-1 and 5-4. Then we went to Atlanta and won the first two games, 3-2 and 5-4. It’s been so great.

Last night Mat Latos started the game and did very well. He threw six innings, allowing two runs on five hits with seven strikeouts. He got the win, which raised his record up to 3-6. It’s taken him a while, but I think he’s getting back to his dominating form.

And talk about an offensive outburst. Two guys in particular had an amazing night at the plate. Chris Denorfia, leading off, went 3-for-5. Ryan Ludwick went 4-for-5 with an RBI. Chase Headley had two hits as well.

In the top of the seventh, we had out biggest inning. The game was tied at 2-2 when Eric Patterson led off the inning with a walk. Braves manager Fredi Gonzalez instantly made a pitching change, which was probably his biggest mistake of the game. Patterson stole second and scored on Denorfia’s single.

An out later, Chase Headley singled, Ryan Ludwick singled, and Jorge Cantu singled, which drove in two more runs. We led 5-2, and thanks goodness that we got those extra runs.

Luke Gregerson allowed a run in the bottom of the inning. In the bottom of the ninth, of course Heath Bell had to make things interesting so he walked the second batter he faced and allowed him to score. Thanks, Heath. We all needed that heart attack.

But in the end it all worked out and we got our fourth straight win. I really have no idea what happened to this team (I suspect that it’s just because we’re on the road), but I’m definitley loving it. I forgot how good it felt to have a winning team. We may not have completely turned the corner yet, but I think we’re headed in the right direction.

Clayton Richard is starting tonight against Tommy Hanson. Let’s get the sweep boys!!!

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